For anyone interested in the natural history of Africa and the growth in our knowledge of the continent's flora and fauna, this book will be a most interesting read. Rodney Carrington Wood was clearly a man with a passion for Africa and its biota. He was also an unusual character, on the one hand flighty and unable to stick to a task for any length of time, yet on the other a dedicated and talented natural historian. In this latter mould, he built up a formidable knowledge of the countryside in which he lived (mostly Malawi), based on first hand observations and experience, such that those who knew him regarded him with esteem. He was also a person happy to share this knowledge with others, and in so doing entertain and inspire them.

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I commend David Happold for providing us with a detailed and interesting account of the life of one of the more significant 'naturalists' living in Africa in the early to mid twentieth century. His book is thoroughly researched and well-written - it gives one a real feeling of life in early twentieth century Africa, albeit from a rather colonial perspective. It also provides a good example of the contribution that individuals like Rodney Wood have made to both the documentation and conservation of Africa's biota. Although in these days the term 'naturalist' has been somewhat devalued, in Happold's words 'in the way it is used to describe [Rodney] Wood, it is a great compliment' - a sentiment with which I concur.

To cite this paper: Herbert, D. 2011. Book review 'African Naturalist. The life and Times of Rodney Carrington Wood, 1889-1962.' David Happold. African Invertebrates 52 (2): 593-594.